Butcher block countertops in the bathroom have become a popular choice in recent years. Fueled by a desire for more organic materials, many DIYers opt for materials that are economical and provide warmth and contrast for their bathrooms.
Whether you have a leftover piece of butcher block from your recent kitchen renovation or are tempted to incorporate the material into your home, there are plenty of ways to create butcher block countertops in your bathroom.
Benefits of Butcher Block in Your Bathroom
A butcher block bathroom vanity is often made using bamboo, but other woods such as oak, cherry, or walnut can create a unique focal point for the room as well. Opting for a live edge on your butcher block vanity can create a beautiful contrast against porcelain sink surfaces as well.
Water-Resistant
When properly sealed, butcher block is water-resistant. We have seen our customers use floor sealer, waterlox polyurethane, or marine grade sealant to ensure long-term functionality and beauty for their butcher block vanity. Water-resistant finishes are widely available and are a reliable way to prevent all moisture from seeping into wooden countertops. Be sure to finish all sides and edges of your block, not just the top!
Heat Resistant
Despite popular belief, butcher block countertops are more resistant to heat than granite when sealed properly. Hardwood surfaces also take longer to burn or char than any other countertop material, so you can feel confident using your curling iron or other hot tools in the bathroom.
While it is possible for butcher block counters to be damaged by excessive heat, heat marks can be easily sanded out should they occur. These repairs are much easier than facing melting laminate countertops or warped stone ones from similar conditions!
Bathroom Sink Styles for Butcher Block Countertops
When crafting a butcher block vanity for your bathroom, there are a variety of sink options to consider. Here are some of our favorites:
Photo by Sinkology
Drop-In Sinks
Drop-in sinks offer a classic and traditional silhouette for your bathroom. If you’re creating your countertops yourself, you won’t need to worry about getting the hole perfect as the sides of the sink will likely cover any imperfections.
Vessel Sinks
Vessel sinks, otherwise known as above-the-counter sinks, are a modern and fresh option for your butcher block vanity. If you’re looking to showcase every inch of your butcher block counters, these are a great way to provide visual interest and additional contrast for your vanity.
Statement Sinks
Choosing the wood for your butcher block vanity is only half the fun. Consider different sink materials to pair with your countertops. Nickel or porcelain sinks serve as supportive neutrals while bright copper sinks can add additional contrast and vibrancy to your bathroom.
Installation and Topcoat Options
Traditional vanity heights in older homes range from 30 to 32 inches up from the floor. The modern trend is toward higher vanities, up to around 36 inches.
You have a few options for countertop widths with the Hardwood Reflections butcher block. Our regular countertop width is 25” and the “island” countertop size is 39” so depending on the sink space that you’re looking for you’ll be able to choose the best one.
If you’re choosing an open no-base bathroom vanity that works well with small spaces, you can build an open base out of butcher block legs that turn into a waterfall look. Just be prepared for the weight of the sink basin and the weight of the human that’s going to lean on or sit on the bathroom countertop. You have to be prepared for anything in this room!
Installing your butcher block countertop has a very important chain of events.
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- Cut your butcher block countertop to size for your room, sink, and cabinet base
- Sand to 330 grit
- Finish each top and edge for a waterproof environment. This is not the room for mineral oil finishes! Let the topcoat completely dry per the product’s manufacturer recommendations
- Pre-drill needed holes for installation so you have less of a chance of your countertop cracking at the installation step
- Install & love forever!
